Haris Rauf’s fiery spell in vain as Southern Brave beat Welsh Fire in The Hundred

Southern Brave continued their impressive form in the Hundred this year, securing their fourth win out of five by decisively defeating Welsh Fire at Sophia Gardens.

James Vince's match-winning innings of 73 off 50 balls set a challenging target of 140 for the Fire, who never posed a significant threat to the chase. This victory placed the Brave at the top of the table.

After winning the toss, Welsh Fire opted to field first. However, the Brave's batters built solid partnerships, with Alex Davies, Leus du Plooy, and Kieron Pollard providing strong support to Vince, who remained unbeaten on 73.

His innings featured seven fours and three sixes. Chris Jordan's brief but impactful cameo in the final 10 balls included a massive 98-meter six, although he was dismissed on the last ball, caught by David Willey off David Payne's delivery.

Welsh Fire's overseas bowlers, Haris Rauf (2 for 22 from 20 balls) and Matt Henry (1 for 20 from 20 balls), stood out, but their efforts were insufficient to contain the Brave's onslaught.

Under the lights, the home side hoped for favorable conditions for a big chase. However, openers Luke Wells and Jonny Bairstow struggled against Akeal Hosein and Craig Overton, managing only 29 runs from the first 30 balls as the bowlers exploited significant swing.

With the Brave seizing control, both opening batters fell in quick succession. Tymal Mills (4 for 16), Danny Briggs (3 for 14), and Jordan (2 for 19) dismantled the Fire's batting lineup, leading the Brave to a comfortable victory.